Nat Ogbeta has joined Plymouth on a free transfer after spending the second half of the season on loan at Wanderers.

Ogbeta was a free agent following his release by Swansea and has now put pen to paper over a contract at Home Park, becoming Wayne Rooney’s first signing since taking charge of the Pilgrims.

Rooney told the club website: “Nathanael joins us from good pedigree having come through the ranks at Manchester City, and he has also had successful spells at Bolton and Shrewsbury.  

“He comes to Argyle looking to take the step up to Championship level on a consistent basis and we believe he has all the attributes to do that and become a pivotal member of the squad.  

“He is quick, good on the ball and provides balance on the left side of defence. I’m sure the fans will enjoy watching him play and I look forward to welcoming him to Plymouth Argyle when we return to pre-season at the beginning of July.”

Director of football Neil Dewsnip added: “I am thrilled that Nathanael has agreed to join us and become our first signing of the summer.  

“He is someone we have been aware of for a while, after producing excellent performances for both Shrewsbury and, more recently, Bolton Wanderers.  

“He has good experience for such a young age but still has plenty of room for growth and development. He will complement our squad perfectly and we feel he will make a really positive impact at Championship level.”

Ogbeta joined the Whites in January and was regularly involved over the past few months, scoring on his debut in a 4-1 victory at Carlisle minutes after coming off the bench.

The 23-year-old had to build up his sharpness during his initial weeks at the Toughsheet Community Stadium following a lengthy injury lay-off but also managed to get on the scoresheet in the 5-0 win against Oxford in March.

He missed a few games after picking up a thigh problem but returned to the side for the play-off final against Oxford at Wembley, with Randell Williams sidelined by a knock.